The government has ordered the temporary blocking of the online shooting game GoreBox as authorities investigate whether it may have influenced one of the teenage suspects involved in the school shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City that left three students dead and at least 20 others wounded.
The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) said the move is a precautionary measure after investigators found that one of the suspects, a 14-year-old Grade 9 student, had been playing GoreBox before the attack.
CICC Executive Director Undersecretary Alexander "Aboy" Paraiso said authorities are examining all possible factors behind the tragedy, including exposure to violent online content. Police Regional Office-Eastern Visayas Director Brig. Gen. Jason Capoy confirmed that GoreBox was among the games played by the younger suspect.
Violent Game Under Scrutiny
GoreBox is a sandbox-style game available on mobile and PC platforms that features graphic violence, firearms, explosions, and realistic gore effects. Players can create custom scenarios, engage in combat, and manipulate objects using a feature called the "Reality Crusher."
The game’s Steam page warns users that it contains mature content, including blood effects, dismemberment, and graphic depictions of violence.
Authorities clarified that no direct link has been established between the game and the shooting. However, investigators are reviewing the suspects’ online activities, including social media posts involving firearms and shooting techniques.
Police also revealed that the 14-year-old suspect had previous exposure to real firearms and had reportedly visited a shooting range before the incident.
Debate on Regulation and Juvenile Accountability
The case has renewed discussions on regulating violent online content and reviewing laws involving minors who commit serious crimes.
Malacañang said President Marcos had been briefed on the case and is open to proposals to amend the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act. Lawmakers have also raised questions about whether minors involved in heinous crimes should face stricter legal consequences.
The CICC emphasized that the temporary blocking of GoreBox does not mean the game caused the attack. Instead, officials said the measure aims to protect young users while investigators determine whether online influences played any role in the tragedy.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, and no final conclusions have been reached.
